Winter driving tips

Tips for driving in inclement weather
• Give yourself plenty of time. Winter is not the best time to be driving anywhere in a hurry. If you can't hit the road early, call and tell your boss you're going to be late. More than likely, she'd rather you arrive late than not at all.

• Clear all snow from your vehicle. Clear your hood, roof, windows, mirrors, headlights, tail lights, and tailpipe. It increases your visibility and prevents snow from flying off your vehicle and impairing the sightline of other motorists.

• Drive gently. Don't accelerate or brake suddenly. As a matter of fact, don't do anything suddenly. Take the weather and driving conditions into consideration. Be safe and aware of others.

• Look ahead. Especially during times of poor visibility, make sure to scan the roadway ahead of you for stopped or slowed vehicles, as well as pedestrians. Slippery footing or deep snow may slow any pedestrian from moving quickly.

• Keep your lights on. See and be seen.

• Plenty of room. Leave three times the normal amount of space between you and the car ahead to ensure you have time to stop.

• Watch for pedestrians. They may cross at an uncontrolled intersection and might not realize that it's going to take you longer to stop. Also, their progress -- particularly that of children and seniors -- may be hampered by slippery surfaces and heavy snow.

• Carry a winter safety kit.

• Carry a cellphone. If you get stuck or see someone else in trouble, they're great for calling for help. But don't use it while you're driving unless it's an emergency. Pay attention to the road, watch for pedestrians and look out for winter driving dangers.

• Maintain your vehicle. Be sure to have a fall maintenance tune-up on your tires, exhaust system, heating and cooling system, etc. During the winter months, don't forget to regularly check your tire pressure, keep your gas tank full, keep your windshield washer fluid levels high and maintain your windshield wipers. Read Winterize your car.

• Don't drive. If you're not a regular driver, have little experience with bad weather or simply aren't comfortable, find another means of transportation, if possible.